The rumored Disney/Square RPG has officially been announced as "Kingdom Hearts" for PlayStation 2. The title is billed as a "3D epic adventure and role-playing game" and will feature new and existing Disney characters, as well as worlds designed by both Disney and Square. The 3D and CG worlds are stated to allow for flexibility and customization of gameplay, although no details were released at this time. The new Disney characters, Sora, Riku, Kairi and the Heartless are being designed by Tetsuya Nomura, best know for the character designs in Final Fantasy 7 and 8.

After a violent storm destroys his home, Sora, a 15-year-old boy, sets out to find his two missing friends. On his journey, he meets up with Court Wizard Donald and Captain Goofy who have set out in search of King Mickey, after he disappeared from Disney Castle. After joining up, the learn of the Heartless, beings without hearts who are out to recruit the Disney Villains to help them steal the hearts and souls of others. The Heartless have the ability to morph and were responsible for the storm that destroyed island home.

Some of the worlds the heroes will visit include Disney's Aladdin, Tarzan, and Peter Pan. Kingdom Hearts has been in development for 2 years, with a staff more than a 100 composed for members from Disney Interactive and Square. Kingdom Hearts is scheduled for release in Winter 2001 in Japan, and Fall 2002 in North America and Europe.